Mumbai BMC Elections: Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray Announce Alliance; Key Updates

Mumbai: In a major political development in Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have come together to contest the upcoming Mumbai BMC elections jointly. The two cousins, who had been politically apart for over two decades, have decided to join forces on the Hindi language issue and regional Marathi concerns. This marks a historic reunion in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

The alliance comes at a critical time, as the 2026 BMC elections will put Uddhav Thackeray’s political standing to the test. Shiv Sena has historically held the mayor’s post in Mumbai for several decades, making this election crucial.

Tribute at Smriti Sthal
Before announcing their alliance, both leaders visited Smriti Sthal in Mumbai to pay homage to Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. The ceremony included floral tributes, with slogans of “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji” echoing across the venue. Uddhav Thackeray’s wife Rashmi Thackeray, son Aditya Thackeray, and leaders from both parties were present during this event.

Election Context
In the 2017 BMC elections, BJP and Shiv Sena had contested separately. The results were: BJP – 84 seats, Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) – 82 seats, Congress – 31, NCP – 9, MNS – 7, Samajwadi Party – 6, and AIMIM – 2 seats. The Mumbai BMC has a total of 227 seats, requiring a minimum of 114 councilors to secure the mayoral post. The new alliance plans to contest not only in Mumbai but also in Thane, Kalyan, and Navi Mumbai together.

Family Reaction
Speaking to PTI, Chandra Kant Vaidya, uncle of both leaders, expressed his joy at the reunion: “I am very happy. For so many years, we have been trying, and today our efforts have borne fruit. Thanks to our forefathers, Devi Tulja Bhavani, and all of you.”

This historic political partnership is expected to reshape Maharashtra’s municipal elections and could significantly influence the state’s political equations.